DEC Offers Free Fishing Clinic on June 17

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Region 1 I FISH NY program will hold a free fishing clinic on Father's Day weekend, Saturday, June 17 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., DEC Regional Director Carrie Meek Gallagher announced today. DEC is partnering with the Theodore Roosevelt Council's Schiff Scout Reservation Director Matt Conlon to offer a family oriented fishing event with instruction in fishing ethics and techniques.

"Fishing is a longstanding tradition throughout the year on Long Island," DEC Regional Director Meek Gallagher said. "Fishing can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience for families and people of all ages, because it allows participants to get outside and take advantage of the nice weather right in their backyards."

The clinic will be held at Deep Pond at the Schiff Scout Reservation, 1606 Wading River Manor Road, Wading River. The reservation is owned by the Boy Scouts of America Theodore Roosevelt Council. Free loaner fishing rods and bait will be supplied by I FISH NY with fishing instruction by DEC staff. The event will begin promptly at 10 a.m. with basic "how to" fishing instruction and fish identification. A brief discussion on the challenges and techniques of fishing will be included. This event is geared toward ages 10 and up, including families, individuals, beginners, and experts. No fishing license is required for this event.

Participants are encouraged to dress appropriately for the weather, which may include a hat and sunscreen or a rain jacket, and it is recommended to bring water or other non-alcoholic beverages. Participants who own their own fishing rods and equipment are encouraged to bring them.

Pre-registration is not required for this clinic.

The public may obtain more information by calling the "I FISH NY" line at (631) 444-0283. The status of this event will also be available on DEC's Free Fishing Clinics webpage and on DEC's Facebook page and Twitter feed. There is no rain date for this event.

For information about freshwater fishing on Long Island, please call the Bureau of Fisheries at (631) 444-0280.

Governor Cuomo has expanded recreational opportunities for residents and tourists, positioning New York State as a recreation destination, connecting communicates to state lands and improving the quality of life. Governor Cuomo's NY Open for Fishing and Hunting Initiative is an effort to improve recreational opportunities for sportsmen and women and to boost tourism activities throughout the state. This includes streamlining fishing and hunting licenses, reducing license fees, improving access for fishing and increasing hunting opportunities in New York State. In support of this initiative, last year $10 million in NY Works funding was dedicated to fish hatchery repairs and 50 new land and water access projects such as boat launches, hunting blinds, trails and parking areas.

Governor Cuomo's NY Open for Fishing and Hunting Initiative, under the 2017-18 budget, provides $3 million for State land access projects and $4 million for hunting and fishing infrastructure.

What: Father's Day Weekend Free Family Fishing Clinic
Where: Deep Pond, Schiff Scout Reservation, 1606 Wading River Manor Road, Wading River
When: Saturday, June 17, 2017
Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Who: I FISH NY, NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, BSA Schiff Scout Reservation
Details: No pre-registration required. This event is geared towards all anglers ages 10 and up who wish to learn about fishing on Long Island. Loaner rods and bait will be available. Participants are welcome to bring their own fishing gear. If weather conditions are unsuitable the event will be canceled.
Cost: Free
Contact: I FISH NY at (631) 444-0283